Grant Orthodox students January 6 and 7 as holidays
The Issue
Growing up, I always felt the weight of expectation to juggle my faith and education. Every January 6 and 7, my family gathers to celebrate Orthodox Christmas – a time for faith, family, and tradition. Yet, despite the significance of these days, I find myself and fellow Orthodox students torn between our cultural and religious commitments and our academic responsibilities.
Many other religious communities enjoy the luxury of weeks off for their respective holidays, as these are recognized in the school calendar. This acknowledgment allows students to observe their traditions without the stress of missing classes or affecting their attendance record. In contrast, Orthodox students face the challenging decision of prioritizing their education over their faith, or vice versa.
In the U.S., schools often recognize and accommodate a diverse range of religious holidays, yet Orthodox Christmas is seldom given the same consideration. This oversight not only marginalizes the Orthodox community but also undermines the principles of inclusivity and equality that form the foundation of our educational institutions.
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated not only in many European and Middle Eastern countries but also among communities in the United States. By granting these two days as holidays, schools have the opportunity to demonstrate genuine respect for diversity and religious freedom.
By officially recognizing January 6 and 7 as school holidays, educational institutions will empower Orthodox students to celebrate their traditions without the burden of compromising their education. It is crucial for school boards and policymakers to extend the same respect and acknowledgment to Orthodox Christmas as is given to other religious holidays.
Please sign this petition to urge our school boards and educational authorities to allow Orthodox students to observe their important religious holiday without penalty or prejudice. Your support will contribute to creating a more inclusive and understanding educational environment for all students.
272
The Issue
Growing up, I always felt the weight of expectation to juggle my faith and education. Every January 6 and 7, my family gathers to celebrate Orthodox Christmas – a time for faith, family, and tradition. Yet, despite the significance of these days, I find myself and fellow Orthodox students torn between our cultural and religious commitments and our academic responsibilities.
Many other religious communities enjoy the luxury of weeks off for their respective holidays, as these are recognized in the school calendar. This acknowledgment allows students to observe their traditions without the stress of missing classes or affecting their attendance record. In contrast, Orthodox students face the challenging decision of prioritizing their education over their faith, or vice versa.
In the U.S., schools often recognize and accommodate a diverse range of religious holidays, yet Orthodox Christmas is seldom given the same consideration. This oversight not only marginalizes the Orthodox community but also undermines the principles of inclusivity and equality that form the foundation of our educational institutions.
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated not only in many European and Middle Eastern countries but also among communities in the United States. By granting these two days as holidays, schools have the opportunity to demonstrate genuine respect for diversity and religious freedom.
By officially recognizing January 6 and 7 as school holidays, educational institutions will empower Orthodox students to celebrate their traditions without the burden of compromising their education. It is crucial for school boards and policymakers to extend the same respect and acknowledgment to Orthodox Christmas as is given to other religious holidays.
Please sign this petition to urge our school boards and educational authorities to allow Orthodox students to observe their important religious holiday without penalty or prejudice. Your support will contribute to creating a more inclusive and understanding educational environment for all students.
Supporter Voices
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on December 17, 2025